How soluble is this litsea cubeba oil in different media?
This litsea cubeba oil is a hydrophobic aromatic liquid: it dissolves fully in ethanol and in fixed (vegetable) oils, and is practically insoluble in water. The benchmark solubility test used in GB 1886.35-2015 is 1 mL of oil in 3 mL of 90% ethanol, giving a clear solution — the standard pass criterion for food-grade batches.
Solubility Profile
| Medium | Solubility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble | Oil phase separates; use a solubiliser for clear water-based products |
| Ethanol (90%) | Fully soluble (1 mL in 3 mL, clear) | Standard test per GB 1886.35 / ISO 3214 |
| Ethanol (anhydrous) | Fully soluble | Ideal for perfumery and flavour concentrates |
| Fixed oils (sunflower, jojoba, etc.) | Fully soluble | Standard carrier for cosmetics and massage blends |
| Propylene glycol | Partially soluble | Test at your use level for clear systems |
| Glycerin | Poorly soluble | Avoid for clear aqueous formulas without solubiliser |
- For water-based beverages or sprays, combine with a suitable solubiliser (e.g. polysorbate) and always check cloud point
- In oil phases — creams, serums, massage oils, soaps — the oil blends directly without heating
- A small alcohol pre-dilution (1:3 to 1:5) is a reliable way to incorporate the oil into aqueous systems
Relate Products
This article was published on 2026-09-07, and last updated on 2026-09-07. The article will be continuously updated.
